7 Foods Dogs Should Not Eat

Gary Kane | May 12, 2015

Harmful Snacks

Most dogs will sample just about anything that resembles food. Responsible owners prevent their dogs from eating anything that could be harmful.Veterinarians offer this list of seven foodstuffs that dogs should not be allowed to eat.

Xylitol-containing products: Xylitol is an artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free candy and gum. It is extremely toxic for dogs.

Chocolate: Chocolate contains a very toxic substance called methylxanthines, which are stimulants that stop a dog’s metabolic process.

Onions: Onions contain an ingredient called thiosulphate which is toxic to dogs.

Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins have proved to be very toxic for dogs no matter the dog’s breed, sex, or age. In fact, grapes are so toxic that they can lead to acute sudden kidney failure.

Fatty and fried foods: Just as fatty and fried foods are not good for humans, they are even worse for dogs.

Macadamia nuts: These are some of the most poisonous foods for dogs. Macadamia nuts, part of the Protaceae family, can cause increased body temperature, inability to walk, lethargy, and vomiting.

Avocados: The pit, skin and leaves of avocados contain Persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.

These are just seven of many human foods that are not OK for dogs. Dogs digest differently than humans and eating the wrong foods can lead to long-term health problems. To learn more about what human foods are/are not safe for dogs, check out our list here. Think that healthy fruits and vegetables are always a good puppy snack? Not necessarily! Read this list of fruits and vegetables that dogs can and cannot eat to make sure you're keeping your dog safe.

Dog nutirition is extremely important. Want to make sure you're feeding your dog the right food? Watch the video below for advice.